Royal Hayward Academy

Faculty Directory

1. Professor Alarik Koppel Head of Postgraduate Studies, Music Performance & Composition

Academic Background: PhD in Musicology, Sibelius Academy, Finland; MMus in Orchestral Conducting, Hochschule für Musik Hanns Eisler Berlin, Germany; BMus (Hons) in Piano Performance. Profile: Professor Koppel is an internationally recognised conductor and musicologist with over two decades of experience leading orchestras and opera productions across Europe and North America. His research focuses on late Romantic symphonic traditions and contemporary Baltic composers. At Royal Hayward Academy, he champions a rigorous yet nurturing environment for postgraduate musicians, emphasising the deep integration of performance practice with scholarly inquiry. He is committed to developing articulate, insightful, and technically accomplished musicians capable of shaping the future of classical music. Teaching Philosophy: “To unlock musical potential, one must cultivate not only technical mastery but also a profound intellectual and emotional engagement with the repertoire and its historical context. My aim is to guide students towards becoming independent, critically aware artists.” Areas of Expertise: Orchestral Conducting, Symphonic Literature, 19th and 20th Century Musicology, Contemporary Baltic Music. Selected Publications/Works:

  • The Evolving Podium: Interpretive Traditions in Mahler’s Symphonies. (Book) ISBN: 978-3-11-07XXXXX-X (2021)
  • Arvo Pärt: Sound, Silence, and Spirituality in Modern Composition. (Journal Article) DOI: 10.1080/17411912.2023.XXXXXXX (2023)
  • Conductor, Royal Hayward Academy Symphony Orchestra, ‘Northern Lights’ Concert Series. Event ID: RHA-PERF-2024-0012

2. Dr. Elina Ozoliņa Senior Lecturer in Fine Art (Sculpture & Installation)

Academic Background: PhD in Fine Art Practice, Slade School of Fine Art, University College London, UK; MFA in Sculpture, Latvian Academy of Art, Latvia; BA (Hons) in Environmental Art. Profile: Dr. Ozoliņa is an acclaimed sculptor and installation artist whose work explores themes of ecological change and material memory. Her pieces, often utilising reclaimed and natural materials, have been exhibited in numerous biennales and galleries internationally. With a strong emphasis on studio-based research and critical discourse, she encourages her students to develop a conceptually robust and materially innovative practice. She is passionate about fostering a supportive yet challenging studio environment where experimentation and critical self-reflection are paramount. Teaching Philosophy: “Art-making is a profound form of inquiry. I encourage students to push material boundaries, engage critically with contemporary issues, and find their unique artistic voice through rigorous experimentation and thoughtful dialogue.” Areas of Expertise: Contemporary Sculpture, Installation Art, Material Culture, Eco-Art, Studio-Based Research Methods. Selected Publications/Works:

  • Reclaimed Narratives: Materiality and Temporality in Contemporary Sculpture. (Book Chapter) in The Handbook of Material Culture, PubID: HCMC-2022-CH14 (2022)
  • Solo Exhibition: ‘Terra Firma Mortis’, Hayward Art Gallery. Catalogue No: HAG-EO-2023-004
  • The Haptic Gaze: Tactility and Viewer Engagement in Installation Art. (Journal Article) Journal of Visual Culture, ISSN: 1470-4129, Vol. 22, Issue 1. (2024)

3. Professor Liam Ó Cadhla Chair of Business Management & Entrepreneurship

Academic Background: PhD in Entrepreneurship & Innovation, University College Dublin, Ireland; MBA with Distinction, INSEAD, France; BSc in Economics. Profile: Professor Ó Cadhla brings a wealth of experience from both academia and the corporate sector, having consulted for numerous FTSE 100 companies and co-founded two successful tech start-ups. His research interests lie in sustainable entrepreneurship, innovation ecosystems, and strategic leadership in high-growth firms. At Royal Hayward Academy, he is dedicated to equipping students with the critical thinking, analytical skills, and ethical framework necessary to navigate and lead in the complex global business environment. Teaching Philosophy: “Business education must be dynamic, relevant, and forward-looking. I strive to create an interactive learning environment where theoretical knowledge is rigorously applied to real-world challenges, fostering an entrepreneurial mindset in every student.” Areas of Expertise: Sustainable Entrepreneurship, Innovation Management, Strategic Leadership, Venture Capital, Business Model Innovation. Selected Publications/Works:

  • The Green Start-up: Building Sustainable Ventures for a Changing World. (Book) ISBN: 978-0-230-XXXXXXX-X (2020)
  • Innovation Ecosystems in Creative Industries: A Comparative Study. (Journal Article) DOI: 10.1177/0266242622XXXXXX (2022)
  • Keynote: ‘The Future of Ethical Enterprise’, Global Summit for Sustainable Business. Conf. ID: GSSB23-KC01 (2023)

4. Dr. Ifigenia Charalambous Lecturer in Dramatic Arts (Performance Studies & Directing)

Academic Background: PhD in Performance Studies, New York University, USA; MA in Directing, Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, UK; BA in Theatre Studies. Profile: Dr. Charalambous is a director and performance scholar whose practice-led research investigates contemporary intercultural theatre and collaborative performance-making. Her directorial work has been staged in the UK, Cyprus, and the US, often exploring themes of identity, migration, and social justice. She is committed to nurturing versatile theatre-makers who are critically engaged, technically skilled, and creatively bold. She encourages students to explore diverse theatrical forms and to understand performance as a vital mode of cultural inquiry. Teaching Philosophy: “Theatre is a laboratory for empathy and a forum for critical thought. My approach fosters collaborative creation, rigorous textual analysis, and an embodied understanding of performance, empowering students to tell compelling stories that resonate with contemporary audiences.” Areas of Expertise: Contemporary Directing, Performance Studies, Intercultural Theatre, Practice-as-Research, Devising Theatre. Selected Publications/Works:

  • Staging the Liminal: Performance and Identity in Post-Conflict Cyprus. (Journal Article) Theatre Journal, ISSN: 0192-2882, Vol. 75, No. 3. (2023)
  • Director, The Suppliants Reimagined, Royal Hayward Academy Theatre. Production ID: RHA-DRAMA-2024-007
  • Embodied Archives: Memory and Re-enactment in Contemporary Performance. (Book) ISBN: 978-1-350-XXXXXXX-X (2022)

5. Dr. Matej Kovačič Associate Professor in Digital Media & Creative Technologies

Academic Background: PhD in Human-Computer Interaction, ETH Zurich, Switzerland; MSc in Creative Computing, Goldsmiths, University of London, UK; BSc in Computer Science. Profile: Dr. Kovačič is a leading researcher in immersive technologies and interactive narrative design. His work focuses on developing novel user experiences in virtual and augmented reality, particularly within educational and artistic contexts. He has led several internationally funded research projects and his interactive installations have been featured at prominent digital arts festivals. At Royal Hayward Academy, he is passionate about inspiring students to explore the creative potential of emerging technologies while critically engaging with their societal implications. Teaching Philosophy: “The intersection of technology and creativity is a space of infinite possibility. I encourage students to be bold experimenters, critical thinkers, and ethical innovators, equipped to design meaningful interactive experiences that shape the future.” Areas of Expertise: Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Interactive Narrative Design, Game Development, Digital Ethics. Selected Publications/Works:

  • Designing Empathy: Affective Interaction in Virtual Environments. (Conference Paper) Proceedings of the ACM CHI Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems. PubID: CHI2023-PAPER401 (2023)
  • Beyond the Frame: Narrative Architectures for Augmented Reality Storytelling. (Journal Article) Digital Creativity, ISSN: 1462-6268. (2022)
  • Lead Developer, ‘Chronoscape VR’, an interactive historical experience. Project ID: RHA-DMCT-VR002 (2024)

6. Ms. Aoife Ní Leathlobhair Lecturer in Arts Management & Cultural Policy

Academic Background: MA in Arts Management, Columbia University, USA; BA (Hons) in History of Art & Cultural Studies, University of Cork, Ireland. Profile: Ms. Ní Leathlobhair has extensive professional experience in arts administration, having worked with leading museums, galleries, and performing arts organisations in both Ireland and the United States, focusing on strategic development, audience engagement, and cultural programming. Her research interests include cultural diplomacy and the impact of arts funding models on creative practice. She is dedicated to preparing students for leadership roles in the dynamic and evolving arts and cultural sectors, emphasising practical skills alongside critical policy analysis. Teaching Philosophy: “Effective arts management bridges creative vision with strategic acumen. My teaching empowers students with the practical tools, theoretical frameworks, and ethical considerations needed to champion the arts and foster vibrant cultural ecosystems.” Areas of Expertise: Arts Marketing & Audience Engagement, Cultural Policy Analysis, Strategic Planning for Arts Organisations, Fundraising & Development, Museum Studies. Selected Publications/Works:

  • The Engaged Museum: Strategies for 21st Century Audience Development. (Policy Report) Institute for Cultural Policy Studies. Report No: ICPS-R2022-05 (2022)
  • Navigating the Funding Maze: A Practical Guide for Arts Managers. (Professional Development Guide) Arts Management Network. PubID: AMN-GUIDE-0017 (2023)
  • Guest Curator, ‘Emerging Voices: Bay Area Artists’, Oakland Cultural Centre. Exhibition ID: OCC-EV24 (2024)

7. Dr. Radek Varga Professor of Composition & Music Technology

Academic Background: DMA in Composition, Stanford University, USA; MMus in Electronic Music Composition, Royal College of Music, UK; BMus in Composition. Profile: Dr. Varga is an award-winning composer whose works span orchestral, chamber, electronic, and mixed-media genres. His compositions are known for their intricate textures and innovative use of technology, and have been performed by leading ensembles worldwide. His research delves into algorithmic composition and interactive music systems. At Royal Hayward Academy, he fosters a creative environment where students explore contemporary compositional techniques and the expressive potential of music technology. Teaching Philosophy: “Composition is a journey of discovery. I guide students to find their unique voice, master their craft, and engage fearlessly with the ever-expanding sonic possibilities of our time.” Areas of Expertise: Contemporary Composition, Electroacoustic Music, Music Technology, Algorithmic Composition, Interactive Music Systems. Selected Publications/Works:

  • Composition: Quantum Entanglements for orchestra and live electronics. Premiere: San Francisco Symphony. PerfID: SFS-RV-2023-01
  • The Algorithmic Muse: AI and Creativity in Musical Composition. (Journal Article) Computer Music Journal, ISSN: 0148-9267. (2022)
  • Software: ‘SpectraWeave’ – a real-time spectral processing tool. Version 2.0. (2024) PubID: SW-RV-2024-V2

8. Ms. Katrin Tamm Senior Lecturer in Fine Art (Painting & Printmaking)

Academic Background: MFA in Painting, Estonian Academy of Arts, Estonia; Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Printmaking, School of the Art Institute of Chicago, USA. Profile: Ms. Tamm is a painter and printmaker whose work is characterised by its lyrical abstraction and exploration of memory and place. She has an extensive international exhibition record and her works are held in several public and private collections. She is known for her intensive studio pedagogy, focusing on the development of technical skill, conceptual depth, and individual artistic identity. She champions the enduring power of traditional media while encouraging experimentation with contemporary approaches. Teaching Philosophy: “The studio is a space for both rigorous discipline and intuitive exploration. I work closely with students to develop their technical facility, critical awareness, and the courage to pursue their personal vision with conviction.” Areas of Expertise: Contemporary Painting, Abstract Art, Printmaking (Etching, Lithography), Colour Theory, Studio Practice. Selected Publications/Works:

  • Solo Exhibition: ‘Palimpsest’, Tallinn Art Hall, Estonia. Catalogue No: TAH-KT-2022-011
  • Beyond the Surface: Materiality and Meaning in Contemporary Painting. (Essay in Exhibition Catalogue) New Perspectives in Painting. PubID: NPP-CAT-2023-E05 (2023)
  • Portfolio of Prints: ‘Urban Traces’, limited edition etchings. (2024) Edition ID: UT-KT-2024-ED20

9. Dr. Duarte Borg Lecturer in Business Management (Marketing & Consumer Behaviour)

Academic Background: PhD in Marketing, University of Malta, Malta; MSc in Consumer Psychology, University of Bath, UK; BCom (Hons) in Marketing. Profile: Dr. Borg’s research focuses on digital marketing strategies, the psychology of consumer choice, and cross-cultural consumer behaviour, particularly within the creative industries. He has published widely in leading marketing journals and has industry experience as a marketing consultant for digital-native brands. At Royal Hayward Academy, he aims to provide students with a cutting-edge understanding of marketing principles and the analytical skills to develop effective, ethical, and data-driven marketing campaigns. Teaching Philosophy: “Understanding the ‘why’ behind consumer decisions is key to impactful marketing. I encourage students to think critically, analyse data insightfully, and develop creative strategies that resonate authentically with target audiences.” Areas of Expertise: Digital Marketing, Consumer Behaviour, Marketing Analytics, Branding, Cross-Cultural Marketing, Neuromarketing. Selected Publications/Works:

  • The Algorithmic Consumer: AI and Personalization in Digital Marketing. (Journal Article) Journal of Marketing Research, ISSN: 0022-2437. (2023)
  • Decoding Desire: Psychological Drivers of Brand Loyalty in the Arts Sector. (Book Chapter) in Arts Marketing in the Digital Age. ISBN: 978-0-415-XXXXXXX-X (2022)
  • Case Study: ‘Viral Campaigns in the Experience Economy.’ RHA Business Review. PubID: RHABR-CS-DB24-003 (2024)

10. Mr. Jānis Bērziņš Instructor in Dramatic Arts (Stagecraft & Production Management)

Academic Background: MFA in Technical Direction, Yale School of Drama, USA; BA in Theatre Design & Technology. Profile: Mr. Bērziņš is an experienced technical director and production manager with a strong background in professional theatre, opera, and live events across the United States and Europe. He has overseen complex productions for major festivals and renowned theatre companies. His expertise covers all aspects of stagecraft, from scenic construction and automation to lighting, sound, and video integration. He is dedicated to training students in the practical, organisational, and safety-critical skills required for successful and innovative theatrical production. Teaching Philosophy: “Behind every seamless performance is meticulous planning and skilled execution. I provide students with hands-on experience and a comprehensive understanding of production processes, empowering them to transform creative visions into tangible realities safely and efficiently.” Areas of Expertise: Technical Direction, Production Management, Stagecraft, Scenic Design & Construction, Theatre Health & Safety, Automation. Selected Productions (as Technical Director):

  • A Midsummer Night’s Dream, California Shakespeare Festival. ProdID: CSF-AMND-2023-TD
  • The Electra Project, Off-Broadway Premiere. ProdID: TEP-NYC-2022-TD
  • Royal Hayward Academy Annual Opera Production. ProdID: RHA-OPERA-2024-PM

11. Dr. Lena Kieffer Lecturer in Digital Media (Game Design & Development)

Academic Background: PhD in Interactive Arts and Technology, Simon Fraser University, Canada; MSc in Game Design, IT University of Copenhagen, Denmark; BA in Media Studies. Profile: Dr. Kieffer is a game designer and researcher specializing in serious games, narrative design in interactive systems, and player experience (PX) research. Her work explores the potential of games for education, social impact, and artistic expression. She has collaborated on award-winning indie games and educational simulations. At Royal Hayward Academy, she fosters a collaborative and experimental environment for aspiring game developers, blending critical game studies with practical design and development skills. Teaching Philosophy: “Games are powerful systems for engagement, storytelling, and learning. I encourage students to design with purpose, iterate creatively, and understand the profound impact their interactive creations can have on players and society.” Areas of Expertise: Game Design, Narrative Design, Player Experience (PX), Serious Games, Unity/Unreal Engine Development, Game Studies. Selected Publications/Works:

  • Playful Pedagogy: Designing Games for Transformative Learning. (Journal Article) Games and Culture, ISSN: 1555-4120. (2023)
  • Game Co-Designer: ‘EcoChains: The Arctic Cycle’, educational simulation game. PubID: ECOGAME-LK-2022
  • Narrative Mechanics: Crafting Compelling Stories in Interactive Worlds. (Book) ISBN: 978-1-138-XXXXXXX-X (2024)

12. Professor Darius Kazlauskas Professor of Arts Management & Cultural Economics

Academic Background: PhD in Cultural Economics, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Netherlands; MA in Arts Administration, University of Zurich, Switzerland; BA in Economics. Profile: Professor Kazlauskas is a leading authority on cultural economics, arts funding policy, and the economic impact of creative industries. His extensive research has informed government policy in several European countries, and he has served on numerous advisory boards for cultural institutions. He brings a rigorous analytical approach to the study of arts management, aiming to equip students with a sophisticated understanding of the economic, social, and political forces shaping the cultural landscape. Teaching Philosophy: “A thriving arts sector requires visionary leadership grounded in sound economic understanding and astute policy awareness. My goal is to cultivate strategic thinkers who can advocate effectively for the arts and manage cultural resources with both passion and precision.” Areas of Expertise: Cultural Economics, Arts Funding Policy, Economic Impact of the Arts, Cultural Entrepreneurship, International Cultural Relations. Selected Publications/Works:

  • The Value of Culture: Measurement, Meaning, and Policy Implications. (Book) ISBN: 978-90-485-XXXXX-X (2021)
  • Rethinking Subsidies: New Models for Arts Funding in the 21st Century. (Journal Article) International Journal of Cultural Policy, ISSN: 1028-6632. (2023)
  • Report for the Ministry of Culture: ‘Economic Contributions of the Creative Industries in Lithuania.’ Report ID: LT-MOC-DK2022-01 (2022)

13. Dr. Sorcha Horvat Senior Lecturer in Music (Vocal Performance & Opera Studies)

Academic Background: DMA in Vocal Performance, Juilliard School, USA; MA in Opera Performance, Curtis Institute of Music, USA; BMus (Hons) from Royal Irish Academy of Music. Profile: Dr. Horvat is an accomplished soprano who has performed leading roles in opera houses and concert halls across North America and Europe. Her repertoire spans from baroque to contemporary opera, with a particular affinity for Slavic art song. As an educator, she is dedicated to developing technically secure, artistically expressive, and dramatically compelling singers. Her pedagogy integrates voice science, language coaching, and stagecraft, preparing students for the demands of a professional operatic career. Teaching Philosophy: “The voice is the most personal of instruments. My teaching focuses on freeing the natural voice, cultivating impeccable technique, and igniting the imaginative power to communicate profound emotion and narrative through song.” Areas of Expertise: Vocal Pedagogy, Opera Performance, Art Song Repertoire (particularly Slavic and German Lieder), Stagecraft for Singers, Diction for Singers. Selected Performances/Recordings:

  • Role of Tatyana in Eugene Onegin, [Fictional] Pacific Opera Theatre. PerfID: POT-EO2023-SH
  • Recital: ‘Songs of Dvořák and Janáček’, Wigmore Hall, London. RecID: WH-SH2022-REC05
  • Aria: A Singer’s Journey Through Technique and Expression. (Pedagogical Guide) PubID: ASJ-SH-2024-01 (2024)

14. Mr. Anders Mägi Lecturer in Fine Art (Photography & Digital Imaging)

Academic Background: MFA in Photography, Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), USA; BA in Visual Communication, Aalto University, Finland. Profile: Mr. Mägi is a photographic artist whose work critically examines themes of identity, technology, and the mediated landscape. His projects often blend traditional photographic processes with digital manipulation and have been exhibited internationally and featured in prominent photography publications. He encourages students to develop a strong conceptual basis for their work, master diverse photographic techniques, and engage with the evolving role of photography in contemporary culture. Teaching Philosophy: “Photography is a powerful language for seeing and questioning the world. I guide students to develop their visual literacy, technical fluency, and a critical voice, enabling them to create images that are both compelling and meaningful.” Areas of Expertise: Contemporary Photography, Digital Imaging & Manipulation, Alternative Photographic Processes, Critical Theory of Photography, Documentary Photography. Selected Publications/Works:

  • Photobook: Simulacra City. Publisher: Kehrer Verlag. ISBN: 978-3-86828-XXXX-X (2023)
  • Solo Exhibition: ‘Digital Ghosts’, [Fictional] Bay Area Centre for Photography. CatNo: BACP-AM2024-SG
  • The Post-Photographic Condition: Truth and Artifice in the Age of AI Imagery. (Journal Article) Photographies, ISSN: 1754-0763. (2024)

15. Dr. Eva Vella Associate Professor in Business Management (Organisational Behaviour & Leadership)

Academic Background: PhD in Organisational Psychology, London School of Economics, UK; MSc in Occupational Psychology, University of Sheffield, UK; BA (Hons) in Psychology. Profile: Dr. Vella’s research explores leadership development, team dynamics, and organisational culture, with a particular interest in fostering creativity and innovation within diverse workforces. She has consulted for a range of organisations, from tech start-ups to public sector bodies, on improving employee engagement and leadership effectiveness. At Royal Hayward Academy, she is committed to developing reflective and ethical leaders who can inspire teams and manage organisational change effectively. Teaching Philosophy: “Understanding human behaviour is fundamental to effective leadership and thriving organisations. I foster a learning environment that combines rigorous theory with practical application, enabling students to develop the interpersonal and analytical skills crucial for navigating complex organisational landscapes.” Areas of Expertise: Organisational Behaviour, Leadership Development, Team Dynamics, Organisational Culture, Change Management, HR Management in Creative Industries. Selected Publications/Works:

  • The Empathetic Leader: Fostering Psychological Safety and Innovation in Teams. (Book) ISBN: 978-0-7494-XXXXX-X (2022)
  • Leading Creative Teams: Strategies for Nurturing Talent and Driving Performance. (Journal Article) Harvard Business Review (Fictional Contribution). PubID: HBR-EV2023-LTCT (2023)
  • Workshop Series: ‘Resilient Leadership in Times of Change,’ RHA Executive Education. WorkshopID: RHA-EXEC-RL24 (2024)